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Header image: BBMF C-47 Dakota ZA947 flies past with undercarriage down and the loadmaster waving from the open door. (Photo: RAF Coningsby Photo Section © Crown Copyright)

BBMF Dakota ZA947 was constructed as a C-47A by Douglas at Long Beach, California, USA, in 1942. It was delivered to the USAAF on 7th September 1942, 75 years ago this month. A little over a week later, on 16th September, it was transferred under the Lend-Lease agreement to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), re-designated as a Dakota III and allocated the RCAF serial number ‘661’. During the Second World War Dakota ‘661’ served entirely in Canada.

Header image: BBMF Spitfire Mk Vb AB910 served with 133 (Eagle) Sqn in 1942 before the unit re-equipped with brand new Mk IX Spitfires. (Photo: Richard Paver)

Many readers will know that BBMF Spitfire Mk Vb AB910 flew with No 133 (Eagle) Squadron during 1942. AB910’s involvement in the Dieppe Raid on 19th August 1942 was covered in an item in the August newsletter.

On 23rd September 1942, No 133 Squadron moved from Biggin Hill to Great Sampford and swapped its Mk V Spitfires (including AB910) for brand new Mk IX Spitfires with considerably improved performance, especially at altitude. Unfortunately, the 133 Squadron pilots were not to enjoy their Mk IX Spitfires for very long.

This year’s Members’ Day will be held at the BBMF, RAF Coningsby on Sunday 1 October 2017. It is an annual event when the BBMF says thank you to its supporters and we’ll be giving away two adult tickets to one lucky member as this month’s ballot prize!

The RAF Memorial Flight Club’s full allocation of tickets will go on sale to members very soon. All members will receive an email notification when tickets are available to buy.